Canadian pharmacists have new prescriptive powers amid doctor shortages – GLOBAL

January 2, 2023

In a year when pharmacists have stickhandled children’s drug shortages and an extra-busy flu shot season, you’d think they might balk at the news in Ontario and B.C. that their prescriptive powers are being expanded.

Yet those in the field say the added responsibilities may make their jobs more fulfilling – so long as the changes are accompanied with appropriate funding.

“Pharmacies are trying to do a lot with limited resources,” said Danielle Paes, chief pharmacist officer at the Canadian Pharmacists Association.

“Appropriate funding is a key part of ensuring that these expanded services are not only sustainable but utilized by the public.”

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic and family doctor shortages, pharmacists have seen their roles in the health-care system recognized by governments and the public like never before, Paes said. They’ve become key points of contact for everything from COVID-19 vaccinations to renewing some drug prescriptions.

Read more: https://globalnews.ca/news/9381965/canada-pharmacists-prescriptive-powers/